Know the Difference Between Mobile Home Water Heater and Regular Water Heater for the First Time

Also called as a manufactured home, this type of home features a compact size and is specially developed to accommodate the unique needs of a person who is always on the move. Before, these mobile homes are just mere trailers but that all changed when the US Department of Housing and Urban Development created and established the National Manufacturing Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974. As per this act, only water heaters that are approved by the HUD can be used for mobile homes. This means that conventional water heaters are not permitted to be employed in mobile homes. Likewise, when it comes to water heater repair, you should only hire professionals accredited to work, mechanically inclined, well-experienced, skilled, and have great communication skills.

The Difference Between Mobile Home Water Heater and Regular Water Heater

This law will surely make you wonder—what may be the difference between the two? In general, there are three main points of differences between these two types of water heaters. These are as follows:

Supply of Power

For a regular water heater, you would have to choose between two types of power supplies—propane or gas.

When it comes with a mobile home water heater, these two supply power options are available in one equipment. It is because the mobile water heater has interchangeable gas and propane orifices. This simple feature makes this type of water heater a bit more expensive. However, this is important so you can use the heater whether the mobile home runs on natural gas or propane.

Position of Connections

Another point of difference is the position of the hot and cold water inlet connection. With a regular water heater, all of these connections (both hot and cold) are found at the top. On the other hand, only the hot water inlet connection is found at the top of a mobile home water heater. Its cold water inlet connection is located on its side.

Availability of Securing Strap Kit

Only the mobile home water heater comes with a securing strap kit. This kit is designed for easy and more convenient installation process. From its name, it is also used to secure the water heater in place which is essential since the mobile home is often used to travel from one place to the other.

To know more about the different types of water heater, please watch this video: 

Home Water Heater Installation 

Now that you know the difference between the two types of water heaters, it’s time to know how to install them. Installing any type of water heater is not an average DIY project. It's crucial to have electrical, plumbing, carpentry, heating and ventilating skills. You need to be aware of your local and state building codes. Also, you might need to get a permit and arrange inspection. 

Free yourself from all the hassle. You can DIY or hire a professional, such as CE Plumbing & Heating for quick and expert water heater installation. 

Here are the steps when replacing and installing a mobile home water heater:

1. Prepare Tools And Materials: You’ll need a garden hose, drill and attachment, adjustable wrenches, drain, and drip pan. For the materials, you’ll need fasteners, sheet metal screw, thread-seal tape, discharge tuber, and gas-leak testing solution.

2. Remove Old Water Heater: Shut off the water valve, gas valve and drain water from the tank. Next, disconnect the water and gas lines to remove your old water heater.

3. Install The New Water Heater: Place a drip pan for the new water heater and install the temperature-and-pressure relief (TPR) valve, following the manufacturer's instructions. Position the new water heater so it’s aligned with your water piping, existing gas supply, and vent duct. Use brackets to secure the water heater tank, following your local code requirements. Connect water lines and test the heater.

Final Words: Which One to Use?

Considering the difference between mobile water heater and regular water heater, which one should you buy? If you are purchasing a heater for your mobile home, the best option that you have would be the mobile water heater.

Please keep in mind as per the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, only water heaters that meet the standards of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development can be used for mobile homes. Complying with this act can help you keep you and your family safer and your properties protected. While these heaters are more expensive than regular heaters, it is worth investing in them as they can help prevent potential problems.